Varsity Wrestling: Rice makes history as first female to qualify for state finals

MCP/OCP Sports Coverage is presented by: Baker Ford Ludington, Fresh Coast Foam, Mission Graphics, Quick-Way, Inc., Squires Chiropractic, Smith & Eddy Insurance, and VanderHaag Car Sales & Rentals.

CADILLAC — Ludington High School’s Laela Rice made program history on Feb. 22 at the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s girls regional 1 tournament, becoming the first female wrestler from LHS to qualify for the MHSAA girls’ state finals. Rice placed third to earn her spot at the state tournament, set for March 6–7.

Rice competed in the semifinals against Easton Wright of Rockford, where Wright secured a fall at the 3:35 mark. Rice continued her tournament in the consolation semifinals, defeating Tessa Pipes of Farwell by fall in 2:44 to advance to the third-place match. In the third-place match, Rice pinned Alexia Brandt of Fife Lake Forest Area in 3:38 to secure third place and qualify for the state finals.

Also competing for the Orioles was Katy Gable. In the first round, Gable earned a 6–2 decision over Silicia Goodman of Whittemore-Prescott to advance. In the semifinal round, she faced Aaliyah Langell of Big Rapids. During the match, Gable was injured, and Langell secured a fall at the 1:13 mark. Gable battled through the injury in the consolation semifinals against Ashton Wright of Rockford, where she fell by a 10–4 decision in the blood round. She finished the day 1–2 in a tough bracket, showing toughness throughout the tournament.

“Katy battled most of the day with her elbow injury and showed heart,” said LHS Coach Jonathan Ransom. “She is a tough competitor, she works hard at each practice, and all of us coaches are very proud of this young lady.”

Ludington’s Chase Gable competed at 215 pounds where his season came to an end just short of qualifying for the state finals. Gable opened the tournament with a strong performance, earning a 10–4 decision over Liam Oprita of Croswell-Lexington. He controlled the match throughout, using steady offense and solid defense to advance to the semifinals. In the semifinal round, Gable faced Isaiah Dimet of Greenville. After a competitive match, Dimet secured a fall at the 5:39 mark, sending Gable into the consolation bracket. In the consolation semifinals, Gable met Alex Harroun of Cedar Springs. Harroun earned a fall at 2:23, ending Gable’s tournament run. Gable finished the day 1–2 in a competitive regional bracket. Although he fell short of qualifying for the state finals, his effort at regionals capped off another strong season representing Ludington.

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